How does the System of Care work?

The System of Care is designed as a “hub-and-spoke” model where “hubs” (Level 1s) provide supporting services to “spokes” (Level 2-4s) within their regions.

Level 1 or Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (RESPTCs) serve as care facilities for patients suspected or confirmed to have High-Consequence Infectious Disease (HCID). RESPTCs also provide regional coordination, outreach, and resources.

1. Level 2 or Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (SPTCs) have the capacity to deliver specialized care to clusters of patients suspected of or infected by a special pathogen and serve as primary patient care delivery centers.

1. Level 3 or Assessment Centers are widely accessible care delivery facilities, able to conduct limited basic laboratory testing, stabilize the patient and coordinate rapid patient transfer to a Level 1 or 2 facility to minimize impact to normal facility operations.

Level 4 or All Other Healthcare Facilities can identify, isolate, inform, and initiate stabilizing medical care; protect staff; and arrange timely transport to minimize impact to facility operations.